PT300 Depression Among Cardiovascular Patients Living In A Middle Eastern Country- A Preliminary Report

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death globally. Similar to other countries, cardiovascular diseases are rising rapidly in Qatar. Depression is associated with an increased morbidity and mortality rate among cardiovascular (CV) patients. Early detection of, and intervention for, depression among CV patients can reduce morbidity and mortality, and save health care costs. However, information on the presence of depression and mental health care needs among cardiovascular patients in the Middle East is limited. Objectives: Funded by the Qatar National Research Fund, the goals of this study are to find ways to effectively manage depression and to evaluate incidence and prevalence of depression in Arab CV patients in Qatar. Methods: A quantitative population-based survey was conducted with 604 Arab CV patients (98% response rate), who are 20 years and over, have confirmed diagnosis of CVD and were admitted to the Heart Hospital in Qatar for treatment between January and August, 2013. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using structured survey questionnaires which include an Arabic demographic questionnaire (to assess demographic factors such as income, age, marital status, etc.) and the self report Arabic version of the Beck Depression Inventory 2 Edition (BDI-II) (to assess depressive symptoms). Results: 60% of the patients rated their health as excellent or good, 13% rated as poor, 14% admitted to experience symptoms of depression and 7% said that they had a confirmed history of depression. Evaluation by the BDI-II indicated that 76% of the patients had no depressive symptoms, 18% suffered low levels of depression and 6% with significant levels of depression. Twice as many females than males were assessed having depression. Of the patients with a history of depression, 31% were receiving medication. While 71% and 37% of the patients agreed to share their mental health information with family and friends respectively, less than 1% agreed to share it with a mental health clinician on a weekly basis. Conclusion: It is imperative that systematic assessment for depression amongst cardiovascular patients is routinely performed and treatment implemented. To improve quality of life and survival of cardiovascular patients, increase awareness, early recognition of and treatment for depression are necessary in Qatar. Disclosure of Interest: None Declared